• Applications already received for more than half of available places
• Fully-funded 12-week programme recommences in September 2025
• Previous participants rate AI+ at 94% in feedback surveys

[LOUGHBOROUGH, UK 14-8-25] The hugely-popular AI+ course for small businesses has been extended - but you will need to move fast to secure a place.

There are only 60 spots available for Phase 2 of the fully-funded programme. More than 30 businesses have already applied.

Delivered by Loughborough-based Institute, the exclusive 12-week course is funded by Innovate UK through Loughborough College. It is tailored specifically to regional SMEs.

Launched in 2024, AI+ takes local firms through the critical analytical skills required to make effective implementation decisions relating to AI and digital transformation.

All four cohorts sold out in 2024-25, earning rave reviews from the dozens of businesses who participated in the programme, and a satisfaction score of 94% in delegate feedback.

Among the beneficiaries was a micro-consultancy from Loughborough which developed a new data management tool which was then taken to market.

Its managing director said: “The platform we built returned the initial investment within a few months and enabled us to go on to move forward with our first application for an Innovate UK grant.”

The data lead from a local sports organisation said AI+ equipped him with the necessary skills to make informed decisions about the benefits and drawbacks of using AI products in business.

“We were able to apply the expertise of speakers to our own problems during the sessions, seeing how they went about solving issues was useful for reviewing my own approach”, he added.

The success of last year’s AI+ programme has seen it extended for a further four cohorts. Two groups will run concurrently from September, with two more in the new year.

The current AI+ format will conclude in March 2026, at which point its leaders will take the programme online through an exciting new initiative.

The purpose of AI+ is to provide a structured learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with insights into the practical application of AI and emergent technology. As such, it directly addresses the AI-washing and tool fatigue currently faced by small businesses.

‍Guy Boyle, AI+ Co-Founder and Institute Co-Director, said:

“Everybody knows that the AI landscape is changing at speed and that the hyped-up tools of today could well be obsolete by tomorrow.

"Our aim is to encourage people to step back from the noise, consider, and make informed decisions about useful applications of AI, automation, and data - so that investment actually empowers them to achieve business ambitions."

The course, which starts in September, is funded by Innovate UK and delivered in partnership with Loughborough College. It includes online and in-person sessions in Loughborough. Register your interest here.

Pictures show the AI+ programme taking place in Loughborough (Credit: Graffio Arts)